Hygienic finger protector

ABSTRACT

An inexpensive, practical hygienic finger protector is provided, which includes a tubular sheath having a proximal open end and a distal closed end. The open end is adapted to receive a human finger to approximately the first joint with the tip of the finger, when inserted, abutting the closed end. The finger protector further includes a knob-like protuberance imbedded into the closed end of the sheath, disposed below the downward-facing fingertip of the inserted finger. The finger protector guards against contamination by dirt or microorganisms, while allowing the wearer to input data or signatures into public data input devices such as keypads or s keypads, card readers, and signature recorders. Optionally aspects, including a keychain attachment, embedded data storage, and aesthetic cut-outs are presented.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This Non-Provisional Application claims the benefit of co-pending U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/346,302, filed on May 19, 2010,which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to hygienic products, and moreparticularly, to an inexpensive finger protection device usable onpublic keypads and the like.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Store customers are routinely required to interact with public datainput devices. These public data input devices include keypads, cardreaders, and signature capture devices used by customers at checkoutcounters as they pay for merchandise and services. Public data inputdevices also include airline check-in kiosks, bank and ATM keypads, andthe like where transactions are initiated, executed, and/or completed.

The practicality and usability of the public data input devices has ledto great popularity, with large numbers of customers being required totouch the same relatively small contact surfaces throughout the day. Thecleanliness of these contact surfaces thus suffers. Customersinadvertently transfer dirt and illness-causing microorganisms to thepublic data input devices simply by using them for their intendedpurpose.

The fingers of the customers may be particularly unsanitary at the endof a shopping trip due to the multitude of diverse surfaces touched asitems for purchase are selected. Customers shopping in the gardensection may have dirt from plants or chemicals from fertilizer remainingon their hands. The hands of customers buying raw meat may come intocontact with dripping juices containing dangerous (and increasinglyantibiotic-resistant) campylobacter, salmonella, or other bacteria.Other customers may have a cold or other virus or may be supervisingchildren who do. Other customers may have grease or oil on their handsfrom their places of business.

Currently there is no practical means or method to protect one customerfrom the dirt and microorganisms left on the public data input devicesby the previous customers. Particularly when customers have a nick orcut on their hands, they are vulnerable to infection from commonbacteria and viruses, as well as more alarming HIV, Hepatitis, herpes,blood-borne pathogens, or other infectious diseases. Placing gloves onthe hand could. protect the hand, but gloves are bulky, awkward, andinconvenient. Thus a need exists for a convenient protective device.

Further, the public data input, devices may be impaired or damaged bythe dirt from the customers' hands, thus necessitating repair. Forexample, dirt under a key of a keypad may cause that number or letter tobecome unfunctional. Thus a device to protect the signature capturedevices, keypads, and other digital input devices is advantageous.

Additionally, many companies give inexpensive promotional items toclients or tradeshow attendees to advertise their services or products.These items may be marked with logos, slogans, the company name, orother brand-image promoting graphics. Though numerous items areavailable, current inexpensive promotional items have been usedrepetitively, thus diminishing their impact and desirability. A newinexpensive, functional item that can be marked with promotionalgraphics is beneficial.

Accordingly, there is an established need for a practical, convenienthygienic finger protector capable of effectively protecting customers'fingers from microorganisms and dirt and capable of protecting publicdata input devices from dirt from fingers, yet inexpensive enough to beprovided complimentarily by companies as a advertising or promotionalitem.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to an inexpensive, practical hygienicfinger protector for protecting against contamination by dirt ormicroorganisms, while allowing the wearer to input data or a signatureinto public data input devices such as keypads, ATM PIN pads, andsignature capture devices.

The hygienic finger protector preferably includes a flexible,rubber-like, tubular sheath having a proximal open end and a distalclosed end. The open end is adapted to receive a human finger. Thefinger protector is designed to reach to approximately the first fingerjoint.

The finger protector further includes a knob-like protuberance imbeddedinto the closed end of the sheath, disposed below the downward-facingfingertip of the inserted finger. The protuberance allows a user toinput his or her signature into a digital signature capture device, suchas used when signing for payment by a credit card of purchases at aretail store.

Optional aspects, including a keychain attachment, embedded datastorage, and aesthetic cut-outs are presented.

An object of the present invention is to provide a hygienic fingerprotector that protects a finger from unsanitary conditions.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a hygienicfinger protector that is practical to use for inputting a digitalsignature in a signature capture device.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a hygienic fingerprotector that provides a suitable carrier for a logo or other graphic.

An additional object of the present invention is to provide a hygienicfinger protector that can be customized.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more readily apparent from the attached drawingsand from the detailed description of the preferred embodiments, whichfollow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The preferred embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be describedin conjunction with the appended drawings, provided to illustrate andnot to limit the invention, where like designations denote likeelements, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of the hygienicfinger protector of the present invention as utilized on an index fingerof a wearer;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a first embodiment of the hygienicfinger protector of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a cut view taken along the lines 3-3 of FIG. 2, showing afirst embodiment of the hygienic finger protector of the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 is a side view showing a second embodiment of the hygienic fingerprotector of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a front view showing a second embodiment: of the hygienicfinger protector of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a cut view taken along the lines 6-6 of FIG. 5, showing asecond embodiment of the hygienic finger protector of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 is a front view showing a third embodiment of the hygienic fingerprotector of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a side view showing a fourth embodiment of the hygienic fingerprotector of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a side view showing a fifth embodiment of the hygienic fingerprotector of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a side perspective view showing a sixth preferred embodimentof the hygienic finger protector of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a side perspective view showing the sixth preferredembodiment of the hygienic finger protector of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is an end perspective view showing the sixth preferredembodiment of the hygienic finger protector of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a rear side perspective view showing the sixth preferredembodiment of the hygienic finger protector of the present invention;and

FIG. 14 is a side perspective view showing the seventh embodiment of thehygienic finger protector of the present invention.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several viewsof the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Shown throughout the figures, the present invention is directed toward ahygienic finger protector that is easily and quickly donned when neededfor shielding the finger from dirt, contamination, and microorganisms,yet allows the wearer to directly sign a signature capture device toinput a digital signature, as well as to input data into keypads, numberpads, PIN pads, and the like. Further, the hygienic finger protector isinexpensive and easily imprintable, allowing usage as a carrier forlogos, slogans, the company name, or other brand-image promotinggraphics. Additionally, the hygienic finger protector of the presentinvention permits incorporation of one or more cutouts of any of avariety of shapes, permitting further customization.

Seven embodiments are presented, a first embodiment, (FIG. 1 to FIG. 3),a second embodiment illustrating a fingernail-shaped cutout 27 (FIG. 4to FIG. 6), a third embodiment illustrating a customized cutout 28 (FIG.7), a fourth embodiment illustrating an indicium (such as an imprintedlogo or brand-image promoting graphic 33) and a keychain attachment 30(FIG. 8), a fifth embodiment illustrating an embedded data storagedevice 35 (FIG. 9), a contoured sixth preferred embodiment, (FIG. 10 toFIG. 13), a contoured seventh embodiment with a fingernail-shaped cutout27 (FIG. 14).

Referring now to FIG. 1, a hygienic finger protector, shown generally asreference number 10, is illustrated in accordance with a firstembodiment of the present invention, as being utilized on a wearer'sindex finger for directly signing a signature capture device 11 or forinputting data into the number Pad 12. As shown, the hygienic fingerprotector 10 comprises a tubular sheath 20 and a knob-like protuberance25 embedded within the tubular sheath 20.

The tubular sheath 20 has a proximal open end 21, has a distal closedend 29, and has a sheath wall 23 of an adequate thickness to retainembedded knob-like protuberance 25. The distal closed end 29 iscone-shaped with a somewhat elongated tube extending to open end 21. Thetubular sheath 20 is sized and configured to receive a human finger(generally an index finger). When inserted, the fingertip generallyabuts the closed end 29. The proximal open end 21 is configured with afinger-receiving opening sized to allow a fingertip to be inserted.

The hygienic finger protector may be offered in multiple sizes toaccommodate fingers of differing sizes (such as, small, medium, andlarge), with the tubular sheath 20 varying both in length and indiameter of the open end 21. Preferably the tubular sheath 20 isconfigured to reach to approximately the first joint of the finger,though variations in length are within the scope of the invention.

The sheath wall 23 is preferably formed of a natural or man-maderubber-like material. The rubber-like material is thicker than commonlyavailable latex finger cots, thereby increasing strength and durability.Also, the rubber-like material is sufficiently thick (FIG. 2, FIG. 3) toretain the embedded knob-like protuberance 25 within the sheath wall 23.Optionally, the sheath wall 23 may be formed of a rigid plastic,flexible plastic, or a combination of rigid plastic and flexibleplastic. For example, the distal end may be formed of a rigid plasticwith the protuberance 25 formed unitarily with the distal end, with aflexible plastic proximal portion non-removably joined to the rigidplastic distal portion. Or, alternatively, the entire sheath wall 23could be formed integrally with the protuberance 25 of a rigid plastic.Preferably the sheath, open end 21, and closed end 29 are formed offlexible, rubber-like material with the protuberance 25 formed of a morerigid plastic.

The knob-like protuberance 25 is preferably a spheroidal or ovoidal beadof plastic, with the plastic having a sufficient rigidity to impress asignature into a signature capture device. The protuberance 25 isadapted to be pressed against the signature capture device to create afocus of pressure satisfactory to input the signature. Optionally, theprotuberance 25 may be formed of metal, may be magnetized, or have theoperative properties of an electromagnetic pen meeting the standardspecifications for electromagnetic pens used with electronic signaturepad sensors to create a digital signature.

The protuberance 25 is located in a downward-facing position toward theclosed end 29, situated under the fingertip of the wearer forconvenience of inputting a signature. Protuberance 25 may beapproximately ⅛ to ⅜ inches in diameter, as illustrated. Duringmanufacture the knob-like protuberance 25 may be placed and positionedin the viscous rubber-like material before hardening.

Referring now to FIG. 4 to FIG. 6, the second embodiment of the hygienicfinger protector 10 provides a fingernail-shaped cutout 27 configured toallow the nail of the wearer to be displayed through cutout 27 andconfigured to accommodate longer nails, artificial nail tips, fashionnails, nail enhancements, or nail extensions. The cutout 27 allows thedisplay of nail polish and nail art designs.

The third embodiment of FIG. 7 illustrates a customized cutout 28. Thecustomized cutout 28 provides a high degree of adaptability to currenttrends and marketing needs, allowing customization for particularcompanies (via logos or other brand-image promoting shapes) and/or fortimely retail sales (seasonal shapes).

Cutout 27 and cutout 28 may be cut or trimmed after fabrication ofsheath 20 or sheath 20 may be molded with cutout 27, 2$ formedunitarily.

The fourth embodiment illustrates the utilization of printing tocustomize the hygienic finger protector 10. The sheath 20 is imprintedwith indicium or indicia 33, such as a desirable, marketable graphic.The marketable graphic 33 is designed to increase the desirability andpersonalization of the hygienic finger protector 10. For example, theindicium 33 may be artwork; a slogan, saying, or other text; or acompany-related image, logo, or other brand-image promoting graphic.

Optionally, cutout 27 or customized cutout 28 may be utilized with theimprinting of the brand-image promoting graphic, indicium 33.

The fourth embodiment of FIG. 8 further includes an extended bulge 30 orthickened region of sheath 23 having an aperture 38 configured toreceive a key ring or keychain 31. The aperture 38 may be simply anopening in the extended bulge 30 or, for more durability, may have agrommet embedded into extended bulge 30 with a center aperture toreceive a key ring or keychain 31.

The fifth embodiment of FIG. 9 illustrates an embedded data storagedevice 35. The embedded data storage device 35 is operable to store dataand, in some aspects, to transmit data. The data storage device 35 maybe a bar code, RFID tag (radio frequency identification label generallyconfigured with a integrated circuit to store and process data and tomodulate and demodulate a radio-frequency signal and configured with anantenna), a keycard (configured to store a digital signature), a smartcard (operable to process data by way of an integrated circuit and toreceive input and deliver output), or the like.

The embedded data storage device 35 allows enhanced customization. Theembedded data storage device 35 can be configured to supplyidentification information. For example, the stored data may be apreferred shopper number to allow the customer wearing the hygienicfinger protector to obtain discounts or the stored data may designate agroup affiliation, such as allowing the customer to be identified with aparticular school for enabling school rewards.

FIG. 10 to FIG. 13 illustrate the sixth embodiment of the hygienicfinger protector 10, which includes a contour 26 of sheath 20 and araised rim 36. An alternate keychain attachment 30 is also shown. Thekeychain attachment 30 has an interior aperture 38 sized and configuredfor receiving a keychain, a ring, a cord, a cable, or the like.

The contour 26 is a curved shape that allows the distal end 29 of sheath20 to generally conform to the shape of a typical fingertip. Theincorporation of the contour 26 reduces or prevents rotation of thefinger protector 10 with relation to the inserted fingertip. The contour26 may include both an interior contour and/or an exterior contour.

The raised rim 36 is a circumferential rounded rim at the edge ofproximal open end 21. The raised rim 36 provides a smooth entrance forthe fingertip, allowing quick and easy insertion. Allowing the fingerprotector 10 to be quickly donned provides an advantage in rushedsituations, such as when ready to sign a digital signature pad or inputa PIN number at a busy store checkout counter. Additionally, the raisedrim 36 provides an aesthetically pleasing,finished appearance for theedge. Optionally, the raised rim 36 or other portion of the sheath maybe formed in a second color to enhance the appeal of the fingerprotector 10.

FIG. 14 illustrates the seventh embodiment of the present invention,which incorporates the features of the sixth embodiment and adds acutout rim 34. The cutout rim 34 is a rounded rim at the edge of cutout27. Similar to the circumferential raised rim 36, the cutout rim 34provides a smooth, pleasing finished appearance for the edge. Preferablyboth the circumferential raised rim 36 and the cutout rim 34 areunitarily molded with sheath 20.

To use the hygienic finger protector 10, the customer inserts his finger(generally the index finger) into the sheath 20 until the tip of thefinger abuts the distal closed end 29 of sheath 20. The finger, coveredby the hygienic finger protector 10, may be used to input numbers intothe keypad. 12 (such as PIN numbers, phone numbers, etc.). Optionally,the protuberance 25 may be pressed against the signature capture device12 and moved to create a signature. The finger is thus protected fromdirt and bacteria and viruses (such as, for example, HIV, Hepatitis,herpes, blood-borne pathogens, and other infections) that contaminatethe keypad. 12 or signature capture device 11. Also, the keypad 12 andsignature capture device 11 are protected from dirt from customers'hands, which may lead to less maintenance and cleaning, saving employeetime and reducing costs.

Companies may choose to customize the hygienic finger protector 10 andto provide the customized finger protectors 10 to clients and customersto create goodwill, brand recognition, and the like. Due to the low costper hygienic finger protector 10, they may advantageously be used ascomplimentary promotional items to give to tradeshow attendees toadvertise services or products.

Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be madeto the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intendedthat all matters in the foregoing description and shown in theaccompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative, and not in alimiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined bythe appended claims and their legal equivalents.

1. A protector for a fingertip, comprising: a tubular sheath sized toaccommodate the fingertip; configured to fit over the fingertip toapproximately the first joint of a finger; configured with a closeddistal end; and configured with a proximal open end adapted with afinger-receiving opening configured and sized to allow the insertion ofthe fingertip wherein a key chain attachment having an interior apertureformed therein is formed in said tubular sheath; and a knob-likeprotuberance disposed within said distal end of said sheath andconfigured to allow a focus of pressure of the fingertip.
 2. Theprotector for a fingertip as recited in Claim. 1, wherein said closeddistal end is configured with a cutout configured to allow at least aportion of a fingernail of the inserted finer to be viewed.
 3. Theprotector for a fingertip as recited in claim 2, wherein said cutout isfinger-nail shaped.
 4. The protector for a fingertip as recited in claim3, wherein the edge of said cutout comprises a rounded rim.
 5. Theprotector for a fingertip as recited in claim 1, wherein said closeddistal end is configured with a contour generally corresponding to theshape of the end of the fingertip and wherein said interior aperture issized and configured for receiving a key chain.
 6. The protector for afingertip as recited in claim 1, wherein said closed distal end isgenerally cone-shaped.
 7. The protector for a fingertip as recited inclaim 1, wherein said sheath is imprinted with an indicium.
 8. Theprotector for a fingertip as recited in claim 7, wherein said indiciumis a logo.
 9. The protector for a fingertip as recited in claim 1,wherein said sheath is formed of a flexible rubber-like material. 10.The protector for a fingertip as recited in claim 9, wherein saidprotuberance is formed integrally with said sheath.
 11. The protectorfor a fingertip as recited in claim 9, wherein said protuberance isformed of a hardened plastic material.
 12. The protector for a fingertipas recited in claim 1, wherein said protuberance comprises an operableelectromagnetic pen.
 13. The protector for a fingertip as recited inclaim 1, wherein said protuberance is embedded within said sheath. 14.The protector for a fingertip as recited in claim 1, wherein saidproximal open end of said sheath comprises a circumferential ridge. 15.A protector for a fingertip, comprising: a tubular sheath sized toaccommodate the fingertip; configured to fit over the fingertip toapproximately the first joint of a finger; configured with a closeddistal end configured with a contour generally corresponding to theshape of the end of the fingertip; configured with a proximal open end;and formed of a flexible rubber-like material that can receive printingof an indicium; wherein said proximal open end is adapted with afinger-receiving opening configured, is sized to allow the insertion ofthe fingertip, and is configured with a circumferential ridge and a keychain attachment having an interior aperture is formed in said tubularsheath; and a knob-like protuberance embedded within said distal end ofsaid sheath and configured to allow a focus of pressure of thefingertip.
 16. The protector for a fingertip as recited in claim 15,wherein said closed distal end is configured with a cutout configured toallow at least a portion of a fingernail of the inserted finger to beviewed.
 17. A method for using a protector for a fingertip, comprising:obtaining a fingertip protector; inserting the tip of a finger into saidfingertip protector to approximately the length of the first joint ofthe finger; positioning a hardened protuberance disposed on the distalend of said fingertip protector upon a digital input device; and usingsaid protuberance to contact said digital input device to input data.18. The method for using a protector for a fingertip, as recited inclaim 17, further comprising placing said fingertip protector on a keyring by inserting the key ring into a provided aperture configured toreceive the key.
 19. The method for using a protector for a fingertip,as recited in claim 17, wherein said fingertip protector is imprintedwith indicium.
 20. The method for using a protector for a fingertip, asrecited in claim 17, wherein said fingertip protector is configured witha cutout adapted to allow at least a portion of a fingernail of thefinger to be viewed.